Derby City Council is inviting expressions of interest from experienced and imaginative operators to manage the catering facilities at the popular Markeaton Park. The opportunity includes the operation of The Orangery café and the kiosk located at the Mundy Play Centre.
In November, Derby City Council’s Cabinet approved plans to outsource the management of its leisure facilities, and the Markeaton Park catering provision is the first phase of this process. The move is intended to provide financial savings while maintaining a high level of service for customers.
The Council is conducting a non-committal Expression of Interest (EOI) exercise and encourages anyone interested in operating either the Orangery or Mundy Play Centre kiosk – or both – to get in touch. Responses from both businesses and community groups are welcome.
The Orangery café is a Grade-II Listed building situated at the heart of Markeaton Park, overlooking the picturesque terrace gardens. The Orangery is part of the 18th-century stable yard, now a vibrant craft village with various workshops and businesses selling handmade goods, gifts, and activities.
The kiosk is located within the central Mundy Play Centre, serving the pay-to-play and free play provisions in this popular section of the park.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure, said:
This is a fantastic opportunity for the right operator, or operators, to become a key part of the vibrant offering at Markeaton Park.
We encourage interested parties to come forward with ideas that will complement the park’s existing attractions and meet the needs of our residents and visitors.
The Council would like the new operators to offer a quality café and kiosk service that fits the needs of the local community and park users, as well as attracting new visitors.
Successful operators will need to maintain a consistent presence within the park, keeping to minimum opening times. This includes opening for the Orangery for a minimum of five hours per day, seven days a week, throughout the year (including Bank Holidays). The kiosk should be open for at least four hours a day on Saturdays, Sundays, and school holidays from April through to October.
The Expression of Interest responses received will be used to help determine the next steps for the facilities. Those interested in this opportunity are invited to register their interest by completing the online form. The deadline for submitting Expressions of Interest is midday on Tuesday 6 May 2025.